The Meghalayan Monolith trail
The Monolith trail in Meghalaya offers a captivating journey through the cultural and historical tapestry of the Khasi and Jaintia Hills. This trail winds through lush landscapes adorned with ancient monoliths, each bearing testament to centuries-old traditions and beliefs of the indigenous Khasi community. The Monoliths of Meghalaya are a collection of ancient, upright stone structures found predominantly in the Khasi Hills and Jaintia Hills region of Meghalaya, India. These monoliths, along with the table-like stone, are planted by the ancestors in the past as a symbol of great achievements, victory in wars, acts of honor, and a division of land. Monoliths are also planted as a treasure for any particular clan, for cultural rites and ceremonies, and as memorials for deceased kings, warriors, and revered elders.
- Explore numerous monoliths scattered across Meghalaya, each with unique carvings and inscriptions depicting tribal traditions and history.
- Visit this sacred grove known for its ancient monoliths and rich biodiversity.
- Discover the monoliths of Nartiang, which include the tallest monolith in Meghalaya, standing at around 8 meters.
- The monoliths are believed to date back centuries and are integral to the Khasi culture, symbolizing ancestral lineage and connections to the divine.
- They represent various aspects of Khasi society, including memorializing ancestors, marking territorial boundaries, and signifying religious or ceremonial sites.
- Monoliths vary greatly in size, with some standing several meters tall, and in shape, ranging from simple upright stones to more elaborately carved structures.
- The Monoliths trial tour in Meghalaya offers a fascinating journey through the rich cultural and historical heritage of the Khasi and Jaintia tribes. The tour focuses on the ancient monoliths, which are large upright stones that serve as markers of significant events, burial sites, or remnants of ancient kingdoms.
- Location - Mawkyrwat, Mawphlang and Nartiang
- Best time to visit- Anytime of the year.
- Stays/Accommodation.
- All transfer, pickup and drop.
- Experience guide
- 5% GST
- Anything not mentioned in the above inclusion
- Day 1- Shillong - Mawkyrwat- Mawphlang Begin your journey from Shillong early in the morning, heading towards Mawkyrwat around 2.5 hours, where you'll explore the lesser-known Mawruduk Monolith- a historical site with a large circle of monoliths and soak in the rural charm of the area. After a brief stop and a traditional Khasi lunch, continue your drive to Mawphlang Sacred Forest and Khasi Heritage village, renowned for its ancient monoliths and historical significance. Spend the afternoon exploring the sacred grove and learning about the cultural significance of the monoliths. Overnight stay at Mawphlang.
- Day 2- Mawphlang- Jowai-Nartiang-Shillong Embark early from Mawphlang for another day of cultural exploration. Proceed with a 2 hours drive to Nartiang Monolith garden - an archaeological site, to witness the tallest monolith in Meghalaya and explore the historical significance of the monoliths in this region. After lunch, continue your journey to Jowai, where you can explore more monoliths and delve into the rich cultural heritage of the Jaintia community. Return to Shillong in the late afternoon, reflecting on the day's discoveries and enjoying a farewell departure.
- Visitors should approach monoliths with respect, understanding their cultural and religious significance to the local community.
- Many monoliths are situated in natural settings; hence, visitors should take care not to disturb the surrounding environment.
- While photography is generally allowed, it's courteous to seek permission and avoid intrusive behavior around sacred sites. Do not climb or stand above the monoliths.
- Finderbridge does not hold any responsibility for refunds arising out of any natural, weather conditions, pandemic situation, man-made calamities that may occur.
- Due to operational reasons, the routing of this experience may be amended. However, all the mentioned services will remain unchanged.
- Finderbridge reserves the right to modify the experience and price at any point, due to reasons including but not limited to: Force Majeure events, strikes, fairs, increase in petrol price/ festivals, weather conditions, traffic problems, overbooking of hotels / flights, cancellation / rerouting of flights, closure of / entry restrictions at a place of visit, etc. While we will do our best to make suitable alternate arrangements, we would not be held liable for any refunds/compensation claims arising out of this.
- Follow sustainable tourism guidelines and do not litter.
With each monolith in Meghalaya, a chapter of its rich heritage unfolds, inviting you to cherish the journey through time and tradition.
1. What are monoliths?
Monoliths are large upright stones that are historical markers, often found in Meghalaya. They signify various aspects of tribal culture, such as burial sites, ancestral reverence, or territorial boundaries.
2. Why are monoliths important in Meghalaya?
Monoliths hold immense cultural and historical significance for the Khasi and Jaintia tribes of Meghalaya. They symbolize the identity, history, and traditions of these communities.
3. Are there any restrictions when visiting monolith sites?
Yes, visitors are advised to respect local customs and seek permission from community leaders or guides before exploring monolith sites, especially those located within sacred areas.
4. What should I wear during the tour?
Dress comfortably for walking and exploring outdoor sites. It's advisable to wear modest clothing out of respect for local customs and traditions.
5. Do you provide other packages ?
Yes. Kindly contact the Finderbridge travel team at + 91 8133804220 for more details and customisation package.
6. Do you provide transportation from Guwahati ?
Yes. Kindly contact the Finderbridge travel team at + 91 8133804220 for transportation arrangements from Guwahati.